The Ultimate Recycle: 2616 Boutique from the YWCA

Upscale consignment and thrift stores are all the rage, but what about one with a purpose?  The YWCA recently held the grand opening for 2616, Nashville’s newest thrift boutique located at where else, 2616 Gallatin Pike in East Nashville.

The YWCA decided to create the new store as an extension of the volunteer activities of Dress for Success Nashville, but definitely had a larger purpose in mind.

“We are dedicated to moving women from safety to self-sufficiency,” said Pat Shea, President and CEO of the YWCA of Nashville & Middle Tennessee. “And through 2616, we are actually practicing what we preach—this store will help the YWCA become more self-sufficient.”

The YWCA has a three-prong purpose for 2616 – to generate revenue to help fund the YWCA community services, to help disadvantaged women find suitable interview and work outfits and to partner with other organizations in Nashville to make sure the clothing and accessories are fully recycled and used.

In addition, the YWCA is partnering with Goodwill Industries to donate unsold inventory in exchange for gift certificates that can be provided to women in the YWCA programs.

The thrift boutique was busy when we visited.  YWCA CEO Pat Shea modeled a great pair of Coach loafers and a fabulous Dooney & Bourke bag.  Together, they’d cost over $500 retail, but at 2616, which is chock full of great bargains at affordable prices, they cost $50.  We made a bee line to the designer section featuring brands Michael Kors, Antonio Melani, and Versace, priced at least 30 percent off retail.

The store is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.